RAIPUR: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Wednesday disbursed Rs 18.47 crore to the Godhan Nyay Yojana beneficiaries.

At a function held at his official residence, Baghel transferred the amount into the bank accounts of the beneficiaries through virtual mode.

The Godhan Nyay Yojana is a flagship scheme launched in July 2020 to promote organic farming, generate employment possibilities in rural and urban areas, promote cattle farming and cow protection, and provide financial benefits to cattle producers.

Under the scheme, Gauthans (livestock sheds) have emerged as a centre for livelihood for villagers. It has boosted the rural economy with activities including procuring cow dung and urine and adding value to them by making paints, vermicompost and fertilizers.

A government spokesperson said of the amount, Rs 5.05 crore was given against 2.52 lakh quintals of cow dung bought from cattle owners, villagers, farmers and landless people in Gauthans from June 15 to 30. 

A dividend of Rs 7.79 crore was distributed to Gauthan committees and Rs 5.53 crore to women groups.

Including the amount distributed on Wednesday, Rs 507.14 crore has been paid so far under the scheme. Of this, Rs 247.12 crore has been given to cow dung vendors.

Cow dung is procured in Chhattisgarh from July 2020 at Rs 2 per kg. Till June 30, 2023, 123.56 lakh quintals of cow dung have been procured in Gauthans.

Electricity and natural paint and other materials are also being produced from cow dung in Gauthans. Also, production of vegetables and mushrooms, poultry, goat, fish farming and animal husbandry are done by women groups.